Pairs That Change Lives

 

United Way of Central Ohio produced a story about Big Brothers Big Sisters, one of the many organizations United Way Sponsors. The news segment follows the story of Big Brother Roger Madison and 17-year-old Little Brother Dyonmarte. It starts off explaining how the pair meets every Thursday night at a local Panera Bread restaurant to go over homework. The pair has been a Big Brother, Little Brother team for the past five years. Madison said their relationship started off with activities like bowling and going to the movies but once he saw one of Dyonmarte’s report cards he knew he had to guide him in other areas.

           Dyonmarte is involved in three sports at his school and that was taking a toll on his academics. Dyonmarte said with the stress of three sports and academics he just wanted to give up but his Big Brother wouldn’t let him. Madison was committed to helping his Little Brother and that eventually led to a boost in Dyonmarte’s GPA from a 1.8 to above a 3.0. As inspiration to never give up and to continue working hard, Madison always brings two items to their study sessions. A small sign that reads, “Think” and a small glass star are always sitting on the table every Thursday evening. Dyonmarte told the reporter that the glass star is always with him.

The goal of the Big Brothers Big Sisters pair is to work together to achieve success. Madison explains that the key is to just be there. Madison encourages more people to get involved with the program stating, “If your interested in helping young people just a little bit, just show up for an hour once a week and see how much of a difference it makes.” This story shows viewers how much of an impact Big Brothers Big Sisters can make on the children and young adults. It also illustrates how Big Brothers or Sisters can truly change their Littles for the better just through a small amount of time.  

 

           Now to those who are reading comment below this post and tell me about someone in your life who has changed you for the better or someone who has just been an inspiration to you. I would love to hear similar stories that relate to Roger and Dyonmarte’s.